CNA Practice Activities of Daily Living Flashcards

When assisting a resident with a tub bath, the water temperature should be checked with which body part before the resident enters?

Answer: The CNA's elbow or wrist

The CNA should test water temperature with their elbow or wrist because these areas are more sensitive to heat than fingertips.

A resident with left-sided weakness needs to put on a button-front shirt. Which arm should be dressed first?

Answer: Left arm, because it is weaker

The weaker (affected) arm is always dressed first to minimize painful range-of-motion manipulation.

Which action best protects a resident's dignity during perineal care?

Answer: Draping the resident and exposing only the area being cleaned

Proper draping exposes only the perineal area being cleansed, protecting the resident's privacy and dignity.

When performing nail care for a resident with diabetes, the CNA should:

Answer: File nails straight across and report any abnormalities to the nurse

CNAs file diabetic residents' nails straight across and always report skin or nail abnormalities to the nurse; cutting is a nursing responsibility for diabetic patients.

A resident refuses to eat breakfast. The FIRST action the CNA should take is:

Answer: Offer alternative foods the resident prefers

Offering preferred alternatives respects the resident's choice while still attempting to meet nutritional needs before escalating.

When shaving a male resident with a safety razor, the CNA should shave:

Answer: In the direction of hair growth to reduce irritation

Shaving in the direction of hair growth (with the grain) reduces skin irritation and razor burn.

To prevent aspiration when feeding a resident, the CNA should position the resident at least:

Answer: 45 to 90 degrees upright

An upright position of 45–90 degrees uses gravity to direct food into the esophagus and reduces aspiration risk.